7 Cosmetic Substances You Should Avoid

With the huge variety of beauty and makeup products available on the market, it is quite difficult to know right away what is good for the skin.

Dermatologist Maria Paula Del Nero points out that women, before buying any beauty product (such as makeup, creams etc.), should pay attention to the substances present in it. "They should look at their assets to see if they are suitable for their skin type and if they don't cause allergies," he says.

As the dermatologist explains, it is usually the dyes and preservatives present in some beauty products that can cause allergic reactions.


Dermatologist Fernando Freitas emphasizes that it is necessary to pay attention to the components of the formulation of these products also to avoid greasiness or extreme dryness of the skin.

"The main idea is always to look for the most suitable product for each skin type, to avoid undesirable reactions," says the doctor. Generally speaking, products that advertise health benefits feature specific substances coupled with their formulas. In addition to the pigments intended for makeup itself, have substances directed to the treatment of the skin. For example, salicylic acid bases for greasiness control and acne reduction; the bases with substances that act in sun protection, with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and derivatives of retinoic acid to reverse the signs of aging, besides the sun protection lipsticks, moisturizers and rejuvenating components ?, explains the dermatologist.

But while many products do their job well, others can do harm to the skin and even to overall health. Some studies have shown that certain substances in skin products can cause damage that goes beyond allergy, dryness or increased oiliness.


Although studies are still controversial, it is hard to look at and avoid certain substances that can cause health problems.

Below are some of these substances, commonly found in skincare products, that can be avoided:

1. Paraben

This is a substance commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics and toiletries. Its use aims to prevent the formation of bacteria and fungi, thus avoiding product contamination. But in some sensitive people, it can cause allergy.


In 1998, it was discovered that parabens have the chemical structure similar to that of estrogen. When we apply a cosmetic that has parabens, it is absorbed into the skin and goes to the glands. Soon after, into the bloodstream, being interpreted by our endocrine system as estrogen. Excess estrogen in the body can lead to problems such as low libido, depression, anxiety, fluid retention and, consequently, bloating; lack of concentration and even womb and breast cancer? explains dermatologist Bianca Stella Gastaldi.

"It is not indicated mainly for pregnant women, as it can cause the baby's bad formation", adds the doctor.

2. Benzoyl Peroxide

It is a common ingredient in most acne fighting products as it has bactericidal, keratolytic and seborregulatory action. "It poses no health risk, but should be used with medical advice as it can cause irritation and dryness," adds dermatologist Bianca.

3. Dioxin

According to dermatologist Bianca Gastaldi, dioxin interferes with thyroid hormone levels in both children and adults, altering glucose tolerance. Also, it has been linked to cases of diabetes.

4. Phthalates

Dermatologist Bianca explains that phthalates are plasticizing agents in PVC-derived plastics, thus ensuring softer and more flexible plastics. They are present in building materials, interior finishes, clothing, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food supplements and more.

? Products like nail polish, sprays Hair or deodorants may contain phthalates. You need to pay attention to the labels and identify these products to avoid them ?, explains the professional. "In humans can cause endocrine changes mainly in the thyroid gland," warns.

5. Free radicals

Dermatologist Bianca explains that free radicals are atoms or molecules with unpaired electrons, that is, their chemical structure lacks an electron. For this reason, free radicals attack other molecules to steal. electrons and thus become stable.These attacked molecules become free radicals and will try the same with other molecules, thus establishing a chain reaction that can cause various damage to the body ?, he says.

Due to the presence of unpaired electrons, free radicals are highly reactive and may participate in undesirable side reactions resulting in cell damage. Many forms of cancer, for example, are considered to be the result of reactions between free radicals and DNA, resulting in mutations that can negatively affect the cell cycle and potentially lead to malignancy?

In addition, free radicals promote the aging process and are related to heart disease such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

Some products, such as sunscreens, contain chemicals that increase free radical production. It's interesting to be aware of ingredients with names: avobenzone, benzophenone, ethoxycinnamate and PABA./p>

6. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a detergent and foaming active ingredient used in bath foams, shampoos and soaps to foam and remove grease.

"When rinsed, the product will have washed the area of ​​the skin in question, but in return, also removed the moisture from the upper layers of the dermis," explains dermatologist Bianca. In people with sensitive skin Given dermatitis, acne, eczema, psoriasis and chemical sensitivity- can the hydrophilic properties of this type of detergent cause skin problems or worsen existing conditions ?, he adds.

7. Dyes

The use of dyes in some beauty products, especially makeup, can cause skin irritation. Some studies even suggest that they may be carcinogenic.

It costs nothing to be aware of these substances and when in doubt, always ask the help of a dermatology professional. After all, health is no joke!

Cosmetics Ingredients To Avoid • Toxic Skincare Ingredients? (April 2024)


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